Turkey hunting is a challenging but rewarding pursuit, and selecting the right box call can significantly impact your success. A well-chosen box call allows you to produce a variety of realistic hen yelps, clucks, and purrs, crucial for attracting toms. This guide will explore the best turkey box calls on the market, considering factors like sound quality, ease of use, durability, and price. Choosing the best turkey box call depends on your individual preferences and hunting style, but this overview will help you make an informed decision.
Understanding Turkey Box Calls
The box call is a classic turkey hunting tool, known for its ability to produce a wide range of sounds. It consists of a wooden box with a striker used to create the calls. The quality of sound depends on several factors:
- Wood Type: Different woods produce different tones. Common choices include cedar, walnut, and cherry. Harder woods generally produce clearer, crisper sounds, while softer woods might offer a more mellow tone.
- Box Design: The size and shape of the box impact the resonance and overall sound. Smaller boxes might produce higher-pitched calls, while larger boxes are better for lower-pitched sounds.
- Striker Material: The striker, typically made of wood or plastic, affects the sound's texture. Different materials create different levels of friction against the box, influencing the call's clarity and raspiness.
Choosing the Right Box Call for You
The best turkey box call isn't a one-size-fits-all answer. Consider these factors when making your selection:
- Your Skill Level: Beginner-friendly box calls often have a more forgiving design, producing calls more easily than more advanced models. Experienced callers might prefer calls with a wider range of sounds.
- Hunting Style: If you're hunting in open areas, you might need a call that projects sound well. For denser woods, a call with a softer sound might be more effective.
- Budget: Box calls range in price from affordable options to high-end, handcrafted models. A higher price doesn't always guarantee a better call, but it often reflects higher quality materials and craftsmanship.
- Sound Preference: Experiment with different calls to find a sound you're comfortable with and that sounds realistic to you. Some callers prefer a more raspy sound, while others prefer a clearer tone.
Top Turkey Box Call Reviews
This section reviews some of the top-rated turkey box calls, examining their strengths and weaknesses. Remember, individual preferences can greatly influence your experience.
1. Primos Double-Tough Box Call
- Pros: Durable construction, versatile sound, relatively affordable.
- Cons: Can be a little difficult for beginners to master.
- Sound Quality: The Primos Double-Tough produces a wide range of sounds, from soft purrs to aggressive yelps.
- Ease of Use: It requires some practice to produce consistent, clear calls, but it's a good option once mastered.
- Overall: A reliable and versatile choice for intermediate to advanced callers.
2. Knight & Hale Lil' Sweet Pea Box Call
- Pros: Compact and lightweight, easy to use, produces realistic sounds.
- Cons: May not project sound as well as larger calls.
- Sound Quality: The Lil' Sweet Pea is known for producing soft, realistic hen sounds, ideal for close-range hunting.
- Ease of Use: Its smaller size makes it easy to handle and produce clear calls, even for beginners.
- Overall: An excellent choice for beginners or hunters who prefer a more compact call.
3. H.S. Strut Box Call
- Pros: High-quality materials, produces a wide variety of sounds, excellent craftsmanship.
- Cons: Expensive, may require more practice to master.
- Sound Quality: The H.S. Strut is known for producing rich, realistic calls with a wide range of pitches and tones.
- Ease of Use: While the quality is exceptional, it might take some time to master the nuances of this call.
- Overall: A premium call for experienced callers who demand the highest quality sound.
Factors to Consider When Buying a Turkey Box Call
| Feature | Importance | What to Look For |
|---|---|---|
| Sound Quality | Crucial for attracting turkeys | Clear, resonant, and realistic hen sounds |
| Ease of Use | Important, especially for beginners | Comfortable grip, easy-to-produce sounds |
| Durability | Important for long-term use | Sturdy construction, high-quality materials |
| Price | Depends on budget and desired features | Balance price with quality and features |
| Size & Weight | Affects portability and ease of use | Consider your hunting style and preferences |
Maintaining Your Turkey Box Call
Proper maintenance extends the life of your box call and ensures its continued effectiveness:
- Clean it regularly: Remove any dirt or debris after each use.
- Store it properly: Keep it in a dry place to prevent warping or damage.
- Use a protective case: This protects it during transport and storage.
- Avoid extreme temperatures: Heat and cold can damage the wood.
Conclusion: Finding Your Perfect Call
The best turkey box call is the one that best suits your individual needs and hunting style. By considering the factors outlined above and researching different models, you can choose a call that helps you successfully attract and harvest spring gobblers. Remember that practice is key – the more you use your box call, the better you'll become at producing realistic sounds that will entice those elusive toms. Happy hunting!